After Monday night's loss to Florida State in the BCS National Championship Game, several Auburn players spoke of how the team's No. 2 finish would propel the Tigers into next season.
While Auburn will return most of its starters, one of them has announced he is leaving early to go to the NFL.
Greg Robinson, who was Auburn's starting left tackle in the team's run to Pasadena, announced Tuesday afternoon that he would not be returning to The Plains next season.
"This was a tough decision but I have decided to declare for the NFL Draft," Robinson tweeted.
Robinson was in his sophomore season at Auburn, but his redshirt status allows him to forgo both his junior and senior seasons to enter the professional ranks. The Thibodaux, La. native is projected to be a Top-10 pick in this year's NFL Draft.
"Greg played a big part in our success this season and I appreciate everything he did as an Auburn Tiger during his career," Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn said in a statement. "He has a bright future ahead of him at the next level and we wish him nothing but the best."
Robinson tweeted two more messages after his announcement, which he said was "harder" after Monday night's loss to the Seminoles.
"I am so thankful for (Malzahn, offensive line coach J.B. Grimes and offensive coordinator Rhett Lashlee) for everything they have done leading us to a memorable season," Robinson tweeted. "I want to thank my teammates and I love them all. Also thank you Auburn Family the best fans in college football."
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